A b-1B strategic bomber launched an AGM-158 jassm cruise missile from an external mount. This brings the US air force closer to full-fledged flight tests of the new hypersonic complex, the regular carrier of which should be this aircraft.
One of the most notable events for the US air force in recent years was the beginning of tests of the b-1B strategic bomber with an external suspension of the new AGM-158 missile.
As reported by Defensenews, the aircraft made a successful launch of the product. The test took place on December 4 at Holloman air force base in new Mexico.
The tests are a good demonstration that the B-1B can use new weapons from external holders. This is important for two reasons. First, the external suspension allows the B-1B to carry more various air-to-surface weapons, which significantly increases the already large combat potential of the winged vehicle.
Lieutenant Colonel David Faggard, a spokesman for the US air force Global strike Command, said in November that the upgrade will allow the B-1B to carry six to 12 AGM-158 missiles or long-range anti-ship missiles on external suspension nodes. In addition, 24 more such items can be placed inside the aircraft.
AGM-158
Image source: Wikipedia
In practice, this means that two upgraded b-1B strategic bombers will have a combat capability comparable to three such vehicles today.
B-1B
Image source: rbk
The second reason is no less significant. The tests can be considered as a demonstration of the possibility of using advanced hypersonic weapons, which, as it became known earlier, can be placed on external b-1B holders.
Recall that the US Air force is currently testing the AGM-183A hypersonic missile, or Air Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW). The concept involves the use of a solid-fuel air-launched missile. It is equipped with a warhead, the role of which is played by a detachable hypersonic unit. The speed of the latter, according to previously presented data, can range from M=6.5 to M=8: this will make it extremely difficult to intercept.
AGM-183A
Image source: Lockheed Martin
Earlier, the us air force conducted tests of the ARRW demonstrator, hanging it on the external holders of the B-52 bomber. The Americans also consider this car as a potential carrier of a hypersonic system.
As well as the new low-profile bomber, which is being created as part of the LRS-B program and which can make its first flight in about two years.
